Ecology Academy Podcast

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Ecology Academy podcast, hosted by Richard Dodd. Join us as we delve into the world of ecology with special guest Craig Llewellyn, Associate Ecologist and Biodiversity Policy Specialist at Atkins Realis. In this first part of a two-part series, we focus on the concept of 'Net Benefit for Biodiversity' within Wales' Planning Policy. Discover how this policy aims to enhance biodiversity at a broader ecosystem level using the innovative DECCA framework. Craig Llewellyn shares his extensive experience and insights on the ecological assessment process, comparing the Welsh net benefit approach to England's biodiversity net gain. Learn about the components of the DECA framework—Diversity, Extent, Condition, Connectivity, and Adaptation to Change—and how they play a crucial role in sustainable development. Tune in to understand how ecological policies are evolving to meet current and future challenges in biodiversity conservation. Background to NBB The 2016 Environment (Wales) Act introduced a new legal duty on all public authorities to maintain and enhance biodiversity in carrying out their functions (the "Section 6 Duty”). The duty requires public authorities to promote the resilience of ecosystems. The newly implemented 12th Edition of Planning Policy Wales (PPW 12th Edition) requires planning authorities (LPAs) must demonstrate they have taken all reasonable steps to fulfil the Section 6 duty. In Wales, the biodiversity net gain regime is termed “Net Benefit for Biodiversity” (NBB). While it has a similar intent to Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in England in delivering an overall improvement in biodiversity, NBB does not use a metric-based approach like BNG, which sets a baseline number of biodiversity units and requires developers to improve biodiversity by a minimum of 10%. NBB supports a proactive approach to be taken by developers to biodiversity, wider ecosystem benefits, and resilience at the design stage. NBB applies to all development in Wales, even in cases where biodiversity value is being maintained rather than enhanced. Unlike the quantitative approach of BNG for development in England, NBB takes a more site-specific and qualitative assessment based on the DECCA resilience attributes and the step-wise mitigation hierarchy. Diversity – Maintaining and enhancing diversity at all levels and scales Extent – Incorporating measures to maintain and increase semi-natural habitat area and linkages Condition – The condition affected by factors like climate change, invasive species, recreation, etc. Connectivity – Maintaining/creating links between and within habitats Aspects of resilience – The product of the above four attributes Any proposed biodiversity enhancements must be appropriate to the local and national environment, considering strategic plans, local strategies, and evidence like area statements. Ecologists need to take a “whole system approach” looking at the baseline biodiversity value and resilience of the entire site, its context in the wider landscape, and opportunities for enhancing resilience in line with the DECCA attributes. A key principle of NBB is that biodiversity enhancement should be proportionate to the scale and nature of the proposed development. While this means small developments can more easily deliver net benefit, it also means planning permission may be refused if no enhancement is proposed as part of an application (PPW 6.4.12). Even where biodiversity value has been maintained on a site, the policy at 6.4.16 states “there must still be a proactive process to look for and secure enhancement through the design and implementation of the development.” Hence, going above and beyond simple mitigation is essential. Developers in Wales will need to be aware of NBB and the Section 6 Duty. This brings additional complexity and cost to the development process. Following the DECCA ecosystem resilience principles and step-wise avoidance/mitigation

Welcome to the Ecology Academy podcast, where host Richard Dodd interviews Richard Crompton from Ecology On Demand. Dive into a fascinating discussion as Richard shares insights from his 26-year career in bat and ecology work, focusing on his unique consulting service dedicated to supporting fellow ecologists. Discover the intricacies of ecological licenses, the significance of staying updated with technological advancements, and the importance of hands-on training through Richard's ventures like Team Bat. Explore Richard's ambitious project aimed at transforming a country estate into a sanctuary for bats while fostering community and employment. Learn about the upcoming tech conference for ecologists, designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to excel in their field. Richard also touches upon the evolving ecology guidelines and their impact on the industry. Engage with this conversation to gain insights into the challenges and triumphs within the ecological sector and find inspiration to contribute to a sustainable natural environment. Stay curious, be adventurous, and build bridges for a better tomorrow. About Richard Crompton Richard started studying bats whilst volunteering with the National Trust aged just 16. He was licensed in Wales by the age of 22 and undertaking commercial bat surveys. Skip forward 25 years and he has surveyed well over one thousand sites for bats, held dozens of European Protected Species licences since 2001 for more than a dozen different species of bats, delivered training throughout the England and Wales (to several thousand people). He spent nine years as a Trustee for the Bat Conservation Trust and has been an author/editorial board member for all four editions of the bat survey guidelines. Founder and co-director of award winning consultancy Wildwood Ecology Ltd until 2016 he now runs the Ecology on Demand bat advice service, the Bat Training partnership (who have trained over 300 people for their bat licences between 2008-2020) and the Team Bat online platform. He was elected to the Bat Conservation Trusts' Batty Hall of Fame in 2022 and is their 'agony uncle' for the Ecologists Anonymous - bat mitigation workshops. He is currently the resident bat advisor for the Crown Estate at Windsor Park, Cardigan Castle, The Museum of Welsh Life at St Fagans Cardiff, and Margam Park and Castle near Port Talbot - all great sites for bats! Connect with Richard Crompton on LinkedIn Find out more at Ecology on Demand or Team Bat

Join Richard Dodd and repeat guest Julia Baker on the final Ecology Academy podcast of 2024 as they delve into the significant legal changes surrounding biodiversity net gain in 2024. This episode explores the roles of ecologists, developers, and local authorities in implementing these new practices, focusing on both small and large-scale projects. Discover what practitioners have learned over the year, the challenges faced, and the collaborative efforts across various sectors to enhance our natural environments. Julia shares her personal experiences and highlights the importance of early engagement in development projects. The episode also covers the need for effective communication and training to support all stakeholders involved, and how case studies are now starting to emerge as valuable resources for best practice. Don't miss out on this informative discussion about biodiversity conservation, the regulatory landscape in different regions, and the outlook for the coming year. Whether you're an experienced ecologist or new to the field, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the evolving world of biodiversity net gain. Wishing you Happy Holidays too and see you in the New Year! --- Julia is the Technical Director of Nature Services at Mott MacDonald. Julia is the lead author of the UK’s Good Practice Principles on Biodiversity Net Gain, and has designed BNG for several infrastructure developments including transport, energy and housing. Julia was named on the ENDS Power List in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and is Chair of the ICE’s Nature and Biodiversity Taskforce. Link to the Mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain - New Guidance for Practitioners from IEMA: https://www.iema.net/resources/blogs/2024/06/mandatory-biodiversity-net-gain-new-guidance-for-practitioners-from-iema-june-2024/

Join host Richard Dodd in this insightful episode of the Ecology Academy podcast as he delves into the topic of imposter syndrome and its impact on ecologists. After a summer hiatus, Richard returns to explore the challenges faced by professionals in the ecological field, particularly those striving for career advancement and leadership roles. Richard shares his personal journey with imposter syndrome, discussing the common feelings of self-doubt and the fear of being exposed as a fraud. He provides valuable insights into recognizing and acknowledging these feelings, along with practical strategies to challenge negative thoughts and celebrate achievements. Listeners will gain an understanding of how imposter syndrome can manifest in their lives and learn techniques to manage it effectively. Richard emphasizes the importance of seeking support, embracing growth opportunities, and practicing self-compassion to overcome imposter syndrome and thrive as an ecologist. Tune in to discover how to navigate the imposter cycle and turn challenges into opportunities for personal and professional development. Hidden Potential Coaching If Imposter Syndrome is holding you back, then schedule a call with Richard Dodd, accredited Coach and Mentor. Understand what motivates you, your team or your business. Uncover resistances to change. Take action that aligns with what is truly important to you and others. Schedule a free and confidential consultation call and discussion with Richard by visiting his website: https://hiddenpotentialcoaching.net/ Ecology Academy Courses The Ecology Academy has a range of courses that can help you acquire and build the skills you need to succeed as an effective ecologist. Find out what's on offer here: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/

In this insightful episode of the Ecology Academy podcast, we explore the fascinating world of district licensing in ecological conservation with Sarah Garratt and Andy Buxton from NatureSpace. We delve into Sarah's contribution to NatureSpace's strategic licensing approach and Andy's role in the conceptualization of district licensing. Additionally, we discuss the importance of data in ecological research and predictive modelling's role in conserving Great Crested Newts. We uncover the rigorous data collection process at NatureSpace and its amalgamation with species distribution modelling for newt conservation. Learn about our noteworthy strides in district licensing schemes and the remarkable improvements in landscape suitability for newt habitats. The episode unearths NatureSpace's successful collaborations with reputable organizations such as the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust and the University of Kent's Durrell Institute for Conservation and Ecology (DICE). We also delve into the benefits offered by district licensing to developers, both in terms of cost-saving and environmental impact. We highlight the dedicated efforts of NatureSpace in creating and restoring habitats and the long-term management strategies with Natural England. Listen in as we explore the science-led approach of district licensing and how it promotes a collaborative outlook for multiple stakeholders. The episode wraps up with the future of NatureSpace, integrating district licensing with biodiversity net gain (BNG) for better conservation outcomes, and how the district licensing scheme can benefit the advice given to developers by ecological consultants. If you are a developer looking for practical solutions to ecological impacts and survey challenges, this enlightening conversation offers valuable insights and strategies. Join us as we unravel district licensing schemes with NatureSpace! NatureSpace Website: https://naturespaceuk.com/ The ‘old’ standard licensing route for great crested newts through Natural England often takes many months, without any specified deadline and requires a large amount of evidence to be submitted during the process. This option can often result in huge delays to development timelines and has gained great crested newts an unwelcome reputation. Our District and Organisational Licence Schemes offer a simple and quick alternative, which is also available all year-round. Unlike Standard Licensing there is no need to wait for the seasonal survey window (March – June), there is no requirement for additional survey information to be provided and we can deliver a site assessment within just 10 working days. Our Natural England approved impact assessments ensure developers pay fair and proportionate fees for their proposed development impacts, with money going straight into habitat creation, delivered by our NGO partners off-site. These compensatory habitats are created in strategic locations for newts, away from the pressures of development. Our partners create, manage and monitor these aquatic and terrestrial habitats for at least 20 years, ensuring a sustainable future for newts.

Welcome to the Ecology Academy podcast hosted by Richard Dodd. In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Jon Cranfield, a herpetofauna specialist and director of Herpetologic Limited. Starting from his childhood passion for ecology, we journey through his extensive experience dealing with protected species and examine his commitment to ecological conservation through his role with Hampshire Isle White Amphibian and Reptile Group. The episode unwraps in-depth talks about John's concerns on mitigation strategies, the need for innovative thinking, and biodiversity considerations. It highlights new insights into Great Crested Newt conservation and discusses different licensing routes, their implications, and their impact on both development projects and wildlife. Explore the importance of understanding specific needs and adapting to scenarios in the process of newt conservation. Spotlights are also thrown on the challenges posed by rigid guidelines and the balance in considering factors like the cost, inclusion of other ecological elements, and achieving responsible development through effective conservation measures. We examine case studies of successful mitigation sites and discuss how advancements in technology are influencing the new conservation landscape. The use of environmental DNA for pond monitoring and the efficiency of detection dogs in finding newts in terrestrial habitats are discussed and evaluated. The episode also dives into the role of Natural England policies, long-term follow-up management, and monitoring in achieving successful newt conservation. It concludes with a deep discourse on modern conservation strategies, acknowledging the demands of managing ponds, the concept of creating new ponds, and the wider complexities involving newt conservation. The podcast winds up with an overview of an upcoming workshop on Adder Ecology Survey and Mitigation and some prudent advice to budding ecologists about blending traditional techniques with technological advancements. The episode ends on an inspiring note, emphasizing the need for active practitioners in linking ecology and people.

Join us in this informative episode of the Ecology Academy podcast, hosted by Richard Dodd, as we explore the complexities of the rapidly changing world of ecology. We delve deep into recent ecological developments, updated guidelines, new regulations, and the impact of technological advancements on the field. This episode aims to inspire listeners, whether students, professionals, or nature enthusiasts, to embrace change with a growth mindset.

In this episode Richard interviews Jim Mullholland and talks about veteran trees, bats, training, virtual Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRA’s), research into veterinisation of trees and can we do better in looking for bats, plus so much more! Jim observes that since the commencement of the Bat Tree Habitat Key project, our knowledge of tree roosting bats has increased dramatically. Despite this, standard tree surveys yield poor results (the probability of finding bats on a single visit may be as low as 5%). What can be done to improve prospects for bat surveyor and bats alike? Jim shares findings from his ongoing research which aims to improve how we survey for bats in trees. Can off-the-shelf trail cameras give us the advantage we need? What information can these cameras give us? And who would win in a fight between a noctule and a grey squirrel?

In this episode Richard talks with Peter Wharton of Wharton Natural Infrastructure Consultants Ltd. on the joys and challenges of leading and managing a small consultancy business. Pete openly talks about his journey, including his education, career and mental health. The conversation discusses the importance of values, resilience and fortitude, dispelling the myth that business owners know what they are doing at all times and rugby!

How to Build Skills and Confidence for Life: Coaching and Mentoring In this episode, our host, Richard Dodd, delves into the world of coaching and mentoring, exploring their definitions, roles, applications, and how to choose between the two. We also share success stories and discuss potential challenges in these relationships. Finally, we provide tips on how to find a suitable coach or mentor. Talking Points: 1. Defining Coaching and Mentoring: We kick off the episode by discussing what coaching and mentoring mean and how they are typically implemented. This segment provides a clear understanding of these two terms and sets the stage for the rest of the episode. 2. The Role of a Coach vs. a Mentor: We explore the different roles a coach and a mentor play in an individual's development. This segment highlights the responsibilities each role entails and how they contribute to personal and professional growth. 3. Applications of Coaching and Mentoring: We discuss the different scenarios where coaching and mentoring can be applied. This segment explores how individuals and organizations can benefit from these methods, providing real-world examples and practical applications. 4. Choosing Between a Coach and a Mentor: We provide guidance on how to decide whether a coach or a mentor is more suitable for a person's specific needs. This segment offers listeners a roadmap to making an informed decision based on their unique circumstances. 5. Success Stories: We share stories of successful coaching and mentoring relationships. This segment offers insights into what made these relationships successful, and what listeners can learn from them. These stories serve as inspiration and provide practical lessons for listeners. 6. Challenges in Coaching and Mentoring: We discuss potential challenges in coaching and mentoring relationships and how to overcome them. This segment equips listeners with strategies to navigate any hurdles they may encounter in their coaching or mentoring journey. 7. Finding a Coach or a Mentor: We wrap up the episode by providing tips on how to find a suitable coach or mentor. This segment guides listeners on what to look for in a potential coach or mentor, ensuring they find the right fit for their needs. Episode Wrap-Up:Coaching and mentoring can be powerful tools for personal and professional development. Whether you're considering becoming a coach or mentor, or you're on the hunt for one, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and navigating these relationships. Tune in to learn more about how coaching and mentoring can help you build skills and confidence for life. What are your experiences? Do you have a coach or mentor? What do they help you with? What has been your experience of working alongside a coach? Leave us a comment. Resources Career Accelerator for Aspiring Ecological Consultants: A 4-week modular course, commencing OCTOBER 2023, that will enable students to take significant steps to achieve a permanent position as an ecological consultant in the UK. Career Coaching: Discovering the Best in You: A flexible programme that will help transform your career and life! Our expert coaches and mentors provide you with the right tools and right level of support that you need now and tomorrow. CIEEM Mentoring Platform: CIEEM is committed to supporting the continuing professional development of their members and recognise that taking the next step can be a little daunting. There are times we could all benefit from the experience of others. Not even the most successful people in our profession scaled those heights on their own; along the way they benefited from a generous and knowledgeable support system. And that’s exactly why they’ve created a brand new Mentoring Platform.

Richard talks on today's show with Jeremy Smith on why we should take data seriously. On the show Jez tells us why we need to think and ask more questions to help solve real life problems such as biodiversity loss. Jez Smith Jez is a research ecologist for the British Trust for Ornithology using data analysis to help understand the trends in bird demography. He is also one of the directors at Eco-Explore a company founded by ecologists who provide training in Data Analysis to consultant ecologists, NGO’s, PhD students, conservation scientists and government departments. His background has often involved data analysis in one way or another and also ecology and Jez has a passion for teaching and helping people identify where understanding data better can help them. About Eco-Explore Eco-explore Community Interest Company is a scientific research and communication enterprise, established in 2010. A start-up grant from Caerphilly Borough Council, and close links with Cardiff University and the Wildlife Trusts of South and West Wales, have enabled us to diversify into a variety of roles: Guided walks and Wildlife Events; citizen-science, collecting biodiversity data and experiencing Wales’ wonderful wildlife Overseas expeditions; making discoveries and aiding conservation Environmental consultancy; providing data and advice on a range of conservation issues Data analysis; teaching statistics, data analysis consultancy and publishing our own data analysis guidebook School, Undergraduate and graduate training; with Cardiff University – hosting school work experience placements, university Professional Training Year placements, and co-supervision of PhD projects Promoting local conservation; practical conservation, grant funding and campaigning Supporting conservation NGOs; Eco-explore is a not-for profit organization – revenue is used to support joint projects in collaboration with conservation NGOs, primarily with the Wildlife Trusts Wales and through the Welsh Wildlife Partnership scheme, helping to conserve Wales’ wildlife for future generations. Connect via: Twitter: @Ecoexplore Facebook: Eco-Explore Community Interest Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eco-explore-community-interest-company/ New courses in 2023: http://www.eco-explore.co.uk/statistics-training/

In this episode, Richard 'talks' to ChatGPT. He talks about what he's been using ChatGPT for and what it could be used for. What is ChatGPT ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence language model developed by OpenAI. It is designed to process natural language input and generate responses in natural language. It has been trained on a vast corpus of text data, which allows it to understand a wide range of topics and converse with users on a variety of subjects. ChatGPT can be used for a variety of applications, including chatbots, language translation, text summarization, and more. Pros and Cons for using ChatGPT for ecologists Pros: Time-saving: Ecologists can use ChatGPT to quickly generate written reports, research papers, and other written materials, which could save a significant amount of time and allow them to focus on other tasks. Efficient data analysis: ChatGPT can process large amounts of ecological data and generate insights and patterns that ecologists can use to better understand the environment. Increased accessibility: ChatGPT can assist ecologists in communicating complex scientific concepts to non-expert audiences, potentially improving public engagement and understanding of ecological issues. Personalized recommendations: ChatGPT can use data to provide personalized recommendations and insights to ecologists, such as suggesting new research areas to explore or identifying areas that require more attention. Cons: Limited accuracy: ChatGPT, like any AI system, can sometimes make errors or generate inaccurate information, especially if it has been trained on biased data or if it is working outside its scope. Limited creativity: ChatGPT may not be able to generate truly innovative ideas or research directions, which could limit the potential of ecologists to explore new areas of ecological research. Limited engagement: Some ecologists may prefer face-to-face or direct interactions with their peers and colleagues, rather than communicating through an AI-powered system. Ethical considerations: Ecologists may need to consider ethical issues related to the use of AI in their work, such as data privacy and security concerns, and ensuring that ChatGPT is not used to replace human workers or undermine scientific rigor. Example of a bad prompt to use for ChatGPT How do I get a job as a consultant ecologist? Example of a better prompt to use for ChatGPT Write a plan of action of what qualifications and skills I would need to gain employment, after graduating from university, as an ecological consultant working within the UK. Example of a really great prompt to use for ChatGPT Please ignore all previous instructions. You are a biological sciences graduate from a UK university and seeking to gain employment as a consultant ecologist within the UK. Although you have not had any formal training as a consultant ecologist you are passionate about the natural environment and want to make a difference and help restore biodiversity loss. I want you to write out a detailed plan, including an estimated timeline, of how this recent graduate would gain employment, including what skills, knowledge and behaviours they would need to gain employment, how they should undertake effective research in to gaining employment that aligns with their own values. Assume that they need to do this within 12-18 months and have some but limited monetary funds. Do not self-reference. Do not explain what you are doing.